“Wie geht es Ihnen?”
How are you? (formal)
GreetingsFormalA1
Literal Translation
Word for word: “How goes it to you?”
Pronunciation
/viː ɡeːt ɛs ˈiːnən/
When to Use This Phrase
Germans use the formal 'Ihnen' with strangers, elders, and in professional settings. Switch to 'dir' only when invited to use 'du'. Unlike in English, Germans often give genuine answers rather than just saying 'fine'.
Example Sentences
Guten Tag! Wie geht es Ihnen?
Good day! How are you?
Wie geht es Ihnen heute?
How are you today?
Word Breakdown
Related Phrases
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